A Grateful Heart

“In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” -1 Thessalonians 5:18

This is the time of year that we are reminded to stop and be present. Remember the little blessings and appreciate them. I can say I have played Tug-of-War with gratitude this year. I’ve played Tug-of-War with God this year.

My faith has been tested. Though trials have come, I've learned to embrace the words: 

Whatever my lot, 

Thou has taught 

me to say, 

it is well

It is well 

with my soul.

These words have become my daily song.

Looking back several months ago, I struggled with choosing gratitude. I didn't see it. And sometimes I still don't fully grasp the why. But I choose to be thankful for the plans God has in store. Grateful for Him carrying me through.

So here are a few things I am thankful for this year:

  1. Family that is supportive and loves me, flaws and all. 

    A mom that knew I needed her and dropped everything to hop on a plane and be with me. She’s been available for talking hours at a time, even just to sit on the phone and watch a show together so I’ll have company. 

A dad who leaves work to let my dogs out each day at lunch, replaces the firewood in my fireplace without me noticing, and leaves notes and reminders that he cares.

A brother who opened his house to me when I needed to get away for a few days, welcoming my dogs and me into his life.

2.  Incredible friends.

Friends that heard my mom was leaving town and drove out from Denver to spend days with me, take down Christmas lights in May, help around the house, pray with me, and support me.

Friends/coworkers that knew it’d be a difficult 30^thbirthday for me and surprised me every hour of my birthday with gifts during a teacher training this summer. That had ice cream cake, flowers, cards, and words of encouragement to make the day as special as possible.

Friends that flew out from Michigan to be with me to celebrate my birthday and make it special.

A teammate that prays for me and with me, that inspires me to be a better teacher and a better person. 

New friends and old friends that remind me to laugh off the hard days, hold onto the good days, and praise God on both days.

3.  Inspiring students.

I’m blessed to spend my days with the future of the world.

Students that remind me to stop and look at the little things.

Students that teach me how to floss.

Students that allow me to dance and sing around the room without judgment.

Students that show me the importance of friendship and perseverance.

Students that make me full belly laugh.

Students that challenge me to be innovative and enthusiastic.

Students that inspire and humble me daily.

4.  The struggle

            The struggle that knocked me off my feet and onto my    
            knees and continues to do so.
The struggle that caused me to cling to faith and prayer.

The struggle that led to a self-discovery I didn’t know I was missing out on.

The struggle that forced me into a life I am now thankful for.

I have a home. I have hundreds of people that have reached out in love and in prayer. I have dogs to come home to. I have a job that I love. Most importantly, I have my faith.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving!